09/05/2026
Manus Province is set to return to the national netball scene, with a provincial team expected to take part in the 2026 PNG Netball National Championship in September.
This will be the first time in more than 25 years that Manus has entered a team at the national level, marking an important step in re-establishing netball for women and girls in the province.
The Manus Provincial Netball Association has formally submitted its affiliation application to Netball PNG, with support from Chauka Isles Netball Club, which is acting as a technical partner.
The club is assisting with the establishment of administrative structures and the development of a competition framework.
President of Chauka Isles Netball Club, Eva Kuson, said the development follows four years of work to revive the sport in Manus.
“This move is about restoring access,” she said. “For many years, women and girls in Manus have had interest in netball but no clear pathway to participate in organised competition.
This process is about rebuilding that pathway and giving players an opportunity to be part of the sport again.”
The Manus Provincial Government has endorsed the initiative, while an interim committee has been established in the province to begin groundwork.
This includes identifying players and reconnecting with former athletes, officials and supporters.
The focus is on rebuilding netball at the community level, with an emphasis on participation and long-term player development.
Netball PNG President Ulato Avei welcomed the province’s return, saying it would strengthen representation in the sport.
“The return of Manus is an important step for netball in the country. We are encouraged by the work being done and look forward to their participation at the National Championship,” she said.
